Talk to a doctor, nurse practitioner, or other health professional by phone or video anywhere in B.C.—many services are free (some have a fee). Virtual care is quick for common needs and can direct you to in-person care if needed.
Call 9-1-1 or go directly to the nearest emergency department.
When to choose
- You’re sick or unsure what to do next.
- You don’t have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, or can’t get an appointment soon.
- It’s evening or the weekend and clinics are closed.
- You need refills, lab tests, referrals, sick notes, or forms.
- You have follow-up questions after a test, procedure, or hospital visit.
- Your issue is non-urgent and can be handled by phone or video.
Your doctor or nurse may offer after-hours help, ask them about it. A pharmacist can often extend a prescription until you’re seen.
Free Virtual Care Options
Start here for trusted virtual care — free with your BC Services Card. No referral needed. All services are based in British Columbia. Not for emergencies.
Call HealthLink BC (8-1-1) — you’ll be triaged to a nurse. If needed, the nurse will connect you to a doctor who is available by phone or video, 9 a.m.–11 p.m. PT.
You can call the Opioid Access Treatment line from 9–4 p.m. (daily) to speak with a health-care team who can prescribe opioid agonist medications.
Available 5 p.m.– 9 a.m. Get answers on medications, side effects, and interactions. Call Healthlink BC.
Call Healthlink BC for non-emergency health advice. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get mental or physical health support. Talk with a counsellor, or nurse or get peer support.
Are you a member of a First Nation? Call FNHA Virtual Doctor of the Day to speak with a doctor or health professional by phone or video. Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Island Health doesn’t operate, endorse, or guarantee these services. Ask about extra fees and how your data is being used.
How to Begin
Preparing for Your Visit
Here’s what you’ll need for your appointment:
- Your BC Services Card
- Photo identification so the physician can verify your identity
- A phone, tablet, or computer with internet (or a phone for audio)
- A quiet, private space
- A list of medications
- Phone number, name, and address of the pharmacy you use for any prescriptions
- Any questions you want to ask
- Need help with technology? Ask a family or friend. They can help.
What to Expect
- Before your visit: You’ll get instructions by email, phone, or text with your time and a link/number. Some clinics let you upload info ahead of time.
- During your visit: A provider will confirm your identity and symptoms. Ask questions anytime. You can have a support person with you.
- After your visit: You’ll get advice, prescriptions, and next steps. Many clinics send prescriptions straight to your chosen pharmacy.